Two students starting at the University of Greenwich are doing so with a £10,000 boost.
Joshua Feria De La Torre and Isobel McKay are the first recipients of the Visionary Scholarship, a £5,000 award for first-year students who have overcome challenges to gain their places at university. There were 21 nominations by teachers from partner schools and colleges overall.
The panel were especially impressed by Joshua and Isobel's ambition and creativity, as well as their demonstration of the university's values: "Ambition, Creativity, Determination to Succeed and Striving for Excellence."
Joshua, who will be starting in computer science, said: "I am looking forward to a new challenge at Greenwich and spending time in a wonderful location.
"The scholarship will help me with the equipment I need for my course, as well as travel. I have Autism and will be living at home, so it is important for me to study nearby
"Computers and games have always interesting me. I have built gaming computers for me and my brother."
Isobel will be studying computer security and forensics. She said: "I am really looking forward to starting my new adventure at Greenwich, as I loved the enthusiasm of the students and staff.
"The scholarship will enable me to buy equipment – such as a new computer – to support my learning.
"The course appeals to me because I feel our future is linked to our understanding of computer security. My original university plan started in forensics but, as I investigated the options, I became aware that I was passionate about being able to identify, prevent and fight computer crime."
The scholarships have been donated by John Maynard, a Greenwich alumnus, businessman and volunteer at the university, who also sponsors a PhD scholarship and a range of student prizes.
John attended the university after retiring from a manufacturing company he co-founded and developed for 30 years. He graduated with an MA History in 2017.
He added: "Congratulations to Isobel and Joshua who have already shown themselves to be outstanding people. I hope they enjoy and make the most of their time at Greenwich.
"My message to both is, life throws up many difficulties, some very testing and hard to overcome. But always be positive and remember there is usually more than one way to solve a problem."
